The fluid saturated return line can be replaced with new hose for little $$. Do a search for a thread titled "handy little tip", or something like that by me. I would also change the steering filter while you are working on the system. Follow Steve's bleeding instructions and let us know how things turn out.

__________________
Mike Tangas
'73 280SEL 4.5 (9/72)- RIP
Only 8,173 units built from 5/71 thru 11/72

'02 CLK320 Cabriolet - wifey's mid-life crisis

2012 VW Jetta Sportwagon TDI...at least its a diesel

Non illegitemae carborundum.